Before appointing a salesperson, ask for a written explanation of the appointment and the full proposed selling budget. A useful comparison shows what you are paying for, when payment is due and what happens if the campaign changes or the home does not sell.
Commission, advertising and other expenses are different parts of the budget. Ask which items are included, which are optional, whether GST is included and which costs need to be paid before launch. Avoid comparing a single headline figure while leaving out the work it covers.
Your wider moving budget may also need legal work, property records, maintenance, presentation, storage and moving services. Ask the relevant provider for the amount and terms; a general guide cannot establish the cost for your transaction. Keep committed costs separate from possible choices, such as staging or larger improvement work.
Read the agency agreement and have your lawyer explain the agency type, period, cancellation provisions and commission trigger. Tell your adviser and proposed agent about any earlier appointment or buyer introduction so they can address a possible overlap before you sign.
The Real Estate Authority’s agency-agreement guidance explains the importance of the agreement, appraisal evidence and commission information. Get the required consumer guide and keep a copy of the appointment you sign.
Ask what each item is intended to achieve: explaining the layout, presenting the home well, reaching an appropriate audience or helping interested buyers take the next step. Agree who approves material before launch and who can authorise additional spending.
A small decision sheet can prevent confusion: item, purpose, price including GST, payment date, person approving it and whether it is refundable or payable if the property does not sell. Ask for the answer in writing where the proposal is unclear. No advertising budget guarantees a sale price.
Decide when you will review buyer response and costs together. If an extra campaign item is recommended, ask what has changed, what it costs and how it fits the next decision. Keep updates with your original proposal so the final picture remains understandable.
Compare marketing and sale methods, read the selling guide or request an appraisal. You can name your preferred Devonport salesperson or call 09 445 9777 for an introduction.